Switching ruggedness and surge‐current capability of diodes using the self‐adjusting p emitter efficiency diode concept. Issue 3 (1st May 2014) - Basler, Thomas
Abstract : The surge‐current ruggedness of free‐wheeling diodes can be improved by implementing the self‐adjusting p emitter efficiency diode concept (SPEED). Simulations indicate that the switching ruggedness is reduced because of the occurrence of cathode‐side filaments during reverse‐recovery. Experiments confirm the weak switching performance of such a diode in comparison to a conventional diode. By implementing the controlled injection of backside holes concept cathode‐side filaments can be suppressed. However, this measure is not sufficient to regain the switching ruggedness of a conventional diode. It is also necessary to fully embed the p + ‐areas of the SPEED anode in the low‐doped p‐type area to avoid high electrical field strengths at the p + p‐junction and pinning of anode‐side filaments. However, anode‐side adjustments for improving the switching ruggedness can reduce the benefit of the SPEED concept regarding the surge‐current capability.